Maya Operating System

India’s Defence Ministry is taking a significant stride in enhancing its cybersecurity by introducing an indigenously developed operating system, Maya OS.

Introducing Maya OS

Maya OS is an innovative operating system crafted by the Union Ministry of Defence to fortify its computer systems against cyberattacks. It stands on the open-source Ubuntu platform, utilizing freely available software. Notably, Maya OS aims to replicate the interface and functionalities of Windows OS, ensuring a smooth transition for users while providing robust cybersecurity.

Chakravyuh: Shielding from Threats

Maya OS boasts a feature named Chakravyuh, an end-point anti-malware and antivirus software. This element acts as a protective layer between users and the internet, thwarting hackers’ attempts to access sensitive data. As part of the Defence Ministry’s strategic cybersecurity approach, Maya OS will be implemented on all ministry computers by the end of the year.

Genesis of Maya OS

The development of Maya OS was ignited in 2021 after India faced cyber threats targeting its critical infrastructure and defence systems. The decision to replace Microsoft Windows with an indigenous OS was a response to these challenges. A collaborative effort involving experts from Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), National Informatics Centre (NIC), Indian software companies, and academic institutions culminated in the creation of Maya OS within six months.

Ubuntu: The Foundation

Maya OS is rooted in the Ubuntu operating system, which is built on Linux—an open-source software. Ubuntu prioritizes user-friendliness, security, and customizability. Users can explore a plethora of applications via the Ubuntu Software Centre. Its regular updates incorporate new features and security enhancements.

Concept Behind the Name

The moniker “Maya OS” draws inspiration from the ancient Indian concept of illusion, signifying the deceptive nature of reality. The name reflects the notion that hackers would encounter an illusion while attempting to breach Defence Ministry computer systems. Additionally, the term “Chakravyuh” finds its origins in the Indian art of warfare, referring to a multi-layered defensive formation from the epic Mahabharata.

Interface and Functionality

Maya OS ensures a familiar interface for users, emulating the appearance of Windows. It supports widely used applications like Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and AutoCAD. Cloud storage, encryption, digital signatures, and biometric authentication are among its key features, enhancing both security and functionality.

Roadmap for Implementation

Maya OS is set to replace Microsoft Windows on all Defence Ministry computers by the year-end. Beyond bolstering cybersecurity, it aims to reduce dependence on foreign software and boost indigenous innovation. The OS is poised to extend its reach to other branches of the Indian armed forces, like the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as they have already evaluated and approved its adoption.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2023

Category: India Nation & States Current Affairs